NBA Iconic Show "Inside the NBA" Expands Presence Across Networks
Basketball fans have reason to rejoice as the National Basketball Association (NBA), along with TNT Sports and ESPN, have unveiled a major broadcasting overhaul for the beloved program "Inside the NBA." Starting from the 2025-26 season, the quintessential show that has been the heart of basketball commentary on TNT will also air on ESPN and ABC.
The news, announced jointly by the NBA, TNT Sports, and ESPN, marks a significant shift in sports broadcasting and media collaboration. As part of a comprehensive new agreement, the NBA has resolved its legal dispute with Warner Bros. Discovery, providing a clear pathway for this innovative media partnership.
Continuation and Expansion of a Legacy
Recognized for its entertaining and insightful coverage of basketball, "Inside the NBA" will continue to be independently produced by TNT Sports in Atlanta under a new 11-year contract. The agreement not only secures the show's ongoing production but also extends its availability to a wider audience through ESPN and ABC's vast networks.
Key to this partnership is the commitment to delivering premium content with the dynamic team of Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, Shaquille O'Neal, and Ernie Johnson. This charismatic quartet will feature in all marquee live events across ESPN and ABC, including high-profile dates such as opening week, Christmas Day, all ABC games post-January 1, the final week of the regular season, the playoffs, and the NBA Finals.
NBA commissioner Adam Silver celebrated the collaboration, stating, "The opportunity to continue the iconic and Emmy Award-winning 'Inside the NBA' is a huge win for basketball fans everywhere."
Strategic Content and Programming Deals
In a strategic move aligning content across networks, ESPN has exchanged with TNT Sports exclusive rights to 13 Big 12 football games and 15 Big 12 basketball games each season, starting in 2025. This trade highlights the increasing collaboration between major sports networks, fostering an environment where sports content is more accessible to a global audience.
Moreover, TNT Sports and its digital platforms will benefit from a global license to create, produce, and distribute both new and existing NBA content. This expansive media license facilitates the development of new shows featuring the "Inside the NBA" talent, such as "Inside Sports," broadening the types of content available to basketball enthusiasts.
Adding to the excitement, the NBA plans to feature TNT Sports-produced content on its official website and app. This digital cooperation extends the league's partnership with TNT Sports for five more seasons, promising innovative and engaging online content that caters to a tech-savvy audience.
Meanwhile, Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) has secured a package of live games to broadcast in select territories outside the United States, expanding the NBA's international reach and bringing American basketball to fans worldwide.
The Future of NBA Broadcasting
As these shifts take place, ESPN will continue to produce its staple program "NBA Countdown." Yet, according to The Athletic, "NBA Countdown" will assume the second position in terms of prominence under the new broadcasting structure. This adjustment underscores a commitment by ESPN to retain its engaging basketball coverage while making room for the expanded reach of "Inside the NBA."
In essence, this new agreement between the NBA, TNT Sports, and ESPN signals the beginning of a new era in sports broadcasting. With iconic personalities, innovative content strategies, and a broadened network presence, basketball fans around the world can anticipate an enhanced viewing experience that maintains the rich tradition of "Inside the NBA" while embracing modern media dynamics.